Why Simmer Pots Are the Coziest Home Trend Right Now

I know I talk about my book club all the time, but that's because they are the coolest. Someone is always coming up with a great idea and sharing it to make all of our lives better. Although we keep a steady group chat going, the main event happens once a month.

We get together at one of the Fabulous Ladies' lovely homes and catch up in person, eat comfort food, and every once in a while, whoever is hosting will plan an activity or craft. When it's Jacqueline Russell's turn to host, you better believe we are making something cute or useful to take home.

For January's meeting, we did both. Channelling our inner forest witches, we filled mason jars with herbs, spices, and dried citrus to use at home for a simmer pot. I've seen videos all over social media about using these as air fresheners vs. plug-ins with harsh chemicals, but I'd never tried one.

Get our free mobile app

Jacqueline covered her table with butcher paper and laid out lots of different naturally aromatic ingredients. For a little dash of fun, she wrote out common herbalist/mythological associations for each item. We could choose based on scents we liked or what we hope for more of in 2026. Setting intentions.

Rosemary for wisdom, cinnamon for healing, holly for luck, etc., writing wishes on the bay leaves. ALL of us avoided the pomegranate seeds as they represent fertility and NO THANK YOU. Here is my friend Lori's jar.

The winter storm this past weekend was the perfect time to try out my simmer pot jar. I filled a big stew pot a little over halfway with water and tossed in the herbs and orange slices. I made it a point to squeeze the thyme, rosemary, mint, and other softer leaves to release the oils before adding them.

After turning the burner on the lowest setting, I went about my business until I realized I could smell the goodness from the kitchen all the way on the other side of the house!  Throughout the day, it got even stronger as I continued to stir and add water as needed. Better than any of my candles or wax warmers can do. I was super impressed!

It really couldn't be easier either. Hop on Amazon or head to the store and raid the spice aisle. You could also add various extracts like almond or peppermint, just remember a little goes a long way. Have you ever made a simmer pot? What did you put in it? Any tips you would add?